Advancing financial inclusion in Peru
Caja Arequipa
February 2026
In Peru, where micro and small enterprises (MSEs) are a cornerstone of economic activity and job creation yet continue to face structural gaps in access to finance, financial education, and digital services, microfinance institutions play a vital role in fostering inclusive and resilient growth. Aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals1 (SDGs) 1 (No Poverty), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 5 (Gender Equality), Caja Arequipa supports individuals and small businesses in building sustainable livelihoods and strengthening local economies, particularly in underserved and remote regions.
Founded in 1985 and authorized by Peru’s Superintendency of Banking, Insurance, and Pension Fund Administrators (SBS) in 1986, Caja Arequipa has grown into one of the country’s largest, most solid, and widely recognized microfinance institutions. With a nationwide presence and a hybrid operating model that combines digital channels with physical offices, the institution today serves more than 641,353 credit customers and 1,490,277 savers. Through this reach, Caja Arequipa contributes to the democratization of credit and the strengthening of savings among low-income households and early-stage entrepreneurs.
In 2024, Caja Arequipa consolidated sustained growth across its operations. Total assets increased by 13.4%, reaching PEN 11.4 billion, while the gross loan portfolio grew by 9.61% to PEN 9.506 billion. Of this portfolio, 74.4% corresponds to micro and small businesses, underscoring the institution’s continued focus on Peru’s economic engine. At the same time, Caja Arequipa maintained a robust equity base, with equity increasing by 6.98% over the year, supporting long-term stability and responsible growth.
Inclusive finance, digitalization, and financial education
The institution’s commitment to inclusive development is reflected in its focus on accessible financial products, mass financial education, and targeted programs for vulnerable segments. Flagship initiatives include Supérate Mujer, which benefited 41,313 women and provided more than PEN 104 million in loans during 2024, as well as inclusion programs such as Agua Más, Bienvenidos, and Kallpa Warmi. These initiatives are designed to expand access to credit for low-income households and women entrepreneurs, addressing structural barriers to financial participation.
Digitization is another key pillar of Caja Arequipa's strategy. In 2024, 76.7% of transactions were carried out through digital channels, thanks to improvements in its mobile app and an expanded network of correspondent agents and electronic channels. This digital transition enables more agile and efficient services, reduces transaction costs, and broadens outreach to clients in rural and remote areas.
Caja Arequipa’s social impact is further reflected in its commitment to financial education. During 2024, more than 95,697 people participated in the institution’s Aprende Emprende (Learn to Be an Entrepreneur) and Finanzas para Todos (Finance for All) programs, supported by over 1,800 volunteer collaborators. In recognition of its efforts, the institution has received multiple national and international awards for its work in sustainability, digital innovation, and customer protection.
Through its combination of scale, financial strength, and a strong social mission, Caja Arequipa has established itself as a key pillar of Peru’s financial inclusion ecosystem. By continuing to support microentrepreneurs, women, and rural households while advancing digital access and financial education, the institution positions itself as a regional benchmark for sustainable and inclusive microfinance.
Impact indicators
This section highlights key impact indicators2 achieved by Caja Arequipa, showcasing the social and economic contributions made through the portfolio company's activities on the ground.
PROVIDE ACCESS TO FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS
Caja Arequipa promotes financial inclusion by offering accessible microloans, maintaining a presence in areas underserved by traditional banks, and implementing programs that strengthen the economic capacity of low-income households. The institution mainly serves micro and small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and customers with limited credit history.
Average loan size to microfinance end-borrowers
CREATE JOBS BY SUPPORTING SMALL AND MEDIUM ENTERPRISES (SMEs)
Caja Arequipa maintains a strong focus on small businesses, which form the core of its productive portfolio. At the end of 2024, 74.4% of the total loan portfolio was allocated to micro and small businesses, supporting job creation and local economic activity. Within this segment, small businesses accounted for 63% of the MSE portfolio balance, reflecting a strategy oriented toward larger-scale financing within the target segment.
Number of SME end-borrowers of portfolio companies
Average loan size to SME end-borrowers
SUPPORT GENDER EQUALITY VIA WOMEN’S ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT
Caja Arequipa supports women's economic empowerment by expanding their access to productive financing, especially for microentrepreneurs with low incomes or limited credit histories. The institution integrates a gender perspective into its financial inclusion strategy.
Number of women end-borrowers of portfolio company
Share of women end-borrowers of portfolio company
1 Please note that while we support the UN SDGs, we are not associated with the UN and our funds are not endorsed by them.
2 Impact indicators are based on the latest publicly available information, Caja Arequipa’s 2024 Annual Report, and SBS Monthly Bulletin (December 2024).
